PFL Parts Ways with Francis Ngannou, Shakes Up MMA Community

Emerson Raymont

Published: March 6, 2026 11:18 AM ET

Francis Ngannou’s relationship with the Professional Fighters League (PFL) has come to an unexpected end. On Friday, PFL officially announced Ngannou’s release from his contract, a move that has sent ripples through the MMA community.

PFL Parts Ways with Francis Ngannou

The announcement was made via a statement from the organization, expressing respect for Ngannou as both an athlete and an individual. PFL emphasized its commitment to attracting top talent while delivering exceptional competition for fans worldwide.

Career Background

Francis Ngannou record: 18 wins, 3 losses
PFL partnership duration: Three years (May 2023 – October 2024)
Notable fight: Defeated Renan Ferreira by knockout in October 2024
Previous organization: UFC, where he became heavyweight champion in 2021

This split concludes a tumultuous chapter for Ngannou. He initially signed with PFL after a contentious exit from the UFC, during which he did not lose his heavyweight title. The anticipation surrounding his signing was significant, marking it as a win for both Ngannou and the promotion.

Ngannou’s Notable Fights

Despite only competing once under the PFL banner, Ngannou’s contract enabled him to explore boxing opportunities. He participated in high-stakes matches against renowned figures, such as:

Tyson Fury
Anthony Joshua

Ngannou faced defeat against Joshua in March 2024. However, he showcased his skills by knocking out Ferreira shortly thereafter.

Challenges Faced

Ngannou’s journey has not been without personal tragedies. He experienced the devastating loss of his son, Kobe, in 2024. Additionally, Ngannou was involved in a motorcycle accident in Cameroon that resulted in the death of a 17-year-old girl.

Future Prospects

As Ngannou enters free agency, he rides a seven-fight win streak. He is now free to choose his next move, whether returning to MMA or continuing in boxing. There has been speculation regarding a potential reunion with the UFC, despite his ongoing conflict with UFC CEO Dana White.

Ngannou remains a notable figure in combat sports, with a successful history that includes a heavyweight title win in 2021 and a subsequent title defense. The MMA world eagerly awaits his next decision after parting ways with PFL.